Fire Department

It's important to learn the different sounds of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When an alarm makes noise, a beeping sound or a chirping sound, you must take action!

Make sure everyone in the home understands the sounds of the alarms and knows how to respond. To learn the sounds of your specific smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check the manufacturer's instructions that came in the box, or search the brand and model online.

• A continuous set of three loud beeps-beep, beep, beep-means smoke or fire. Get out, call 9-1-1, and stay out.

• A single chirp every 30 or 60 seconds means the battery is low and must be changed.

• All smoke alarms must be replaced after 10 years.

Chirping that continues after the battery has been replaced means the alarm is at the end of its life and the unit must be replaced.

Make sure your smoke and CO alarms meet the needs of all your family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.